Having a body that is genuinely baffled when it comes to ability, coordination, and strength, it would be a struggle to do something that is extremely adventureful. But when the idea of clambering one of the enthralling mountains that people are fussing over these days “Mount Ulap” I never had second thoughts and I took the challenge. My very first, at 1846 meters above sea level.
Mt. Ulap is located at Itogon, Benguet. It scenic features include marvelous pine ridges and extensive grasslands. The entry point starts at Brgy. Ampucao, Itogon and the exit point is at Brgy. Santa Fe, Itogon.
Still in awe of her beauty. The smell of sweet pine trees, I could never forget.
We were six(6) in the team and planned a day hike. I was with my husband, my best friend, and husband’s friends- his Petiks photography team. Before our hike, we already made our reservation so it would be easier to accommodate us. If you are not familiar with the place, I suggest you take the jeepney. Terminal is at the side of Baguio Center Mall. From Baguio, it took us 40min. to arrive in Brgy. Ampucao. We paid php31.00 each. And since the trail ends at Brgy. Santa Fe, going back to Baguio by Jeepney will cost you php50.00 per head. For the registration fee prepare php100.00 each and php600 maximum of 10 pax for the tour guide.
- If you have your own ride/car you can park at their parking area reserved for Mt.Ulap trekkers.
We arrived at Brgy. Ampucao around 6:10. As you can see in the picture, as early as that, there were already flock of people geared up for trekking. According to Israel, more or less 300 people climb up during weekends and lesser on the weekdays. We started hiking at 6:30 A.M.
- FYI their cut-off is at 12noon so would be convenient to start trekking early. We were all packed and ready with Israel, our tour guide.
Make sure you have stamp before the hike. A proof that payment has been done. You will also be oriented by your tour guide of the do’s and don’ts during the trek.
Here are the most important things you need to bring and some reminders to consider:
- Water for hydration.
- Biscuits, candies, chocolates or any snacks that’s easy and light to bring. For sure you will be hungry. You will consume a lot of energy.
- Towel and extra shirt. You might need these, especially when it is too hot and you sweat a lot.
- Trekking poles if necessary. You might bring your own or you can buy wooden ones in the registration area. How I wished I had one being a first timer this sure is a help.
5. Sunscreen. In my case I forgot to put sunblock, so got sunburn after.
6. You could wear gloves (for hiking), hat, and sweater/jacket.
7. Wear rubber shoes (most desirable for hiking). I used a running shoes and it is a little bit slippery. I suggest wear the right kind of shoes especially if the trails are steep.
8. Better to hike in group or with company. When unnecessary circumstances happened, it is easier to ask for help.
9. Bring your cellphones and cameras and make sure they are fully charged. You don’t want to miss the majestic and breathtaking view of the place. And yes, from start to finish everything is visually amazing!
• If you are a first timer like me, better to bring less with you. This is to avoid any fall or accidents. This is also for your convenience especially during the trek.
Surviving the Climb!
The climb to Mt.Ulap is a hasty decision, but a fulfilled one. I honestly don’t know what awaits me along the way.
At first everything was feasible, but as our journey continues, the trail becomes challenging especially on my part. I never had any preparations or even warm up before hitting the trail.
- I advise you do warm up exercise before the climb this helps your muscles be prepared for strenuous activities or you will end up having sore muscles and body pain just what happened to me. Lesson learned as the old adage says. Ok lang super nag enjoy naman ako.haha.
Upon entering the trail, you have to show your stamp. My best friend thought manong was asking for the receipt and so she was looking inside her bag, only to find out it was the stamp. Lol!
Start your souvenir photos here! You can even wear their ethnic native costume. You can give voluntarily in their donation box too.
Here’s our obligatory couple twofie. We were thrilled and always wanted to take pictures.
Going up you could see splendiferous grasslands. I was attracted to these greeny grasses with white flowers. They are so rich and lovely!
It is justifiable to stop and take snappy shots which we did.
Here’s a closer look!
Stride to pose with my bestfriend, Aileen!
Along the way, there are few wooden fences that you need to crossover. Be extra careful when passing through.
The plight has become intense as we went further the trail. But when I look at everyone they seemed untroubled. Well, that is somehow very helpful to me. It suppresses my fears. I tried to focus and all I had that time was trust and confidence that I could finish what I have started.
I never imagined I would go this far! Those pebbles and stones were my greatest foes. I tried to stumble and fall a few times. I even had to take off my shoes and walked barefooted just to make sure my skin would have hold the ground. Glad I made it!
- It is totally alright to take some rest. Do not get ahead of others to be the first to reach the summit. You will get there too. Do the Deep breathing exercise-inhale-exhale trust me this is a great help. Most importantly, Relax and yes I even ask My Jesus to guide me and us during the trek.
We consumed much of our energy and we decided to recharge, had some rest, and embraced the pulchritude of God’s magnificent gift.
Aside from the marvelous pine ridges and lustrous grasslands, another photographic view you can’t leave without taking some photos are the striking pieces of rocks.
Such a beauty! I know you want to preserve this mountain as much as I do. Just a reminder, don’t litter. Bring all your trash with you and dispose them properly.
I can’t contain my happiness. All smiles!
After almost 5 hours of trekking, finally one of the highlights of this adventure is a souvenir photo on top of Gungal rock. When we got there, we had to wait for our names to be called. We weren’t the only team at that time. We waited for almost an hour, but it was all worth it.
This one is my favorite. When I look at the people having themselves pictured on top of this magnifico rock I told myself I want to experience that too. At first I was hesitant, I admit I felt apprehended. Thanks to my best friend who always encourages me to embrace my fear and more so to my husband who not even once left me all throughout our adventure.
Finally after another two (2) hours of hard knocks, still and all one of the best experiences I have was being on top of Mt.Ulap.
We made it! The feeling of content and fulfilled had become our chant going down the trail.
- For some, especially the mountaineers, the trek to Mt. Ulap is normally 4-5 hours, however in our case it took us 8 hours to finish the trail. That includes taking photos, rest time, and I admit I had the slow-moving pace in the team.
Happy, gratified, and accomplished!
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